Traditionally, people associated with all the respiratory problems with the smoking of traditional cigarettes or even second-hand smoking (passive smoking).

But, recent research suggests that inhalation of tobacco vapour when you puff on e-cigarettes can also increase the risk of contracting asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)!

The American Journal of Preventive Medicine has published research data that states an alarming fact – people who vape (use e-cigarettes) are 6 times more likely to develop asthma and COPD than people who do not smoke at all! 

Researchers from John Hopkins University in the United States also concluded that vaping is very dangerous for one’s health.  

What is the link between vaping, COPD and asthma?

When e-cigarettes first came to the market, they were claimed to be better than regular tobacco cigarettes. Because instead of inhaling tobacco smoke, people would be taking in vapour or a mist of tobacco. It was even touted to help kick out the habit of smoking. 

But have these claims been backed by science? No, they haven’t. Vaping actually causes a lot of damage to your lungs. How do you wonder? Well, Studies have found that e-cigarettes can cause inflammation of the lungs and airways, which eventually progresses to COPD. 

Vapour from e-cigarettes contains dangerous substances like:

1. Nicotine 
2. Heavy metals such as lead, nickel, tin, etc.
3. Flavouring material called diacetyl that can scar the air sacks of your lungs and narrow down your air passages.  
4. Formaldehyde and acrolein, which studies have found, can do irreparable lung damage.
5. Propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine – the base in which the nicotine is diluted – are extremely toxic to your respiratory system. 

The main chemicals in e-cigarettes, such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine, have been linked to increased cough, mucus secretions, chest tightness and reduced lung function, all of which can make asthma worse. Vaping can irritate the lung’s airways, making asthma attacks and also lead to COPD more likely.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

All these particles reach your lungs and trigger:

1. Coughing
2. Wheezing
3. Shortness of breath
4. Breathing trouble

Studies have found that e-cigarettes not only increase your chances of getting COPD and asthma but also aggravate the existing symptoms of COPD and asthma.  

To shed more light on the link between COPD and vaping, the Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System carried out extensive research and collected data from 4 lakh people, both smokers and non-smokers. What did they find? They found that a large percentage of smokers have COPD compared to non-smokers!

The study also found that those who vaped every day were 73% more likely to come down with respiratory illnesses and those who used e-cigarettes infrequently had 31% higher chances of getting these illnesses. 

Also Read: Does Vaping Cause Cancer? Exploring The Health Implications

How should you quit vaping?

Vaping is very addictive. This habit is almost as difficult to kick as regular smoking. But is it unconquerable? Absolutely not! All you need is consistent effort and a little bit of guidance. 

Here are a few ways to do it:

• Chew on mint-flavoured gum because studies say that the essence of mint helps to curb the urge to smoke or vape.
• Seek a therapist’s help if your addiction is too intense. There are tobacco and nicotine cessation programs that can train people to live without smoking.
• Get your family and friends to help you. They can stop you when you feel the urge to vape or prevent you from purchasing nicotine cartridges.

Vaping can ruin your life and bring untold misery. It is as harmful as smoking traditional cigarettes. Kick out this habit and don’t let it be a part of your life so that you can stay fit and fine always! 

Read More: 7 Health Effects of Smoking

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.